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Google Patents Image-Capturing Walking Sticks

theodp writes "GeekWire reports that Google has patented an image-capturing walking stick, which can boldly go where no Google Street View Car can. The walking stick has embedded cameras and location sensors, and a switch at the bottom that causes the device to snap pictures whenever the stick hits the ground. The patent also covers using canes and crutches in a similar fashion."

6 of 117 comments (clear)

  1. Re:anyone find that creepy? by pushing-robot · · Score: 4, Funny

    Well, the good thing about camera sticks is they have a natural predator to keep their numbers in check.

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    How can I believe you when you tell me what I don't want to hear?
  2. Calm down everyone by guppygweeb · · Score: 5, Interesting

    Its so they can street view hiking paths and place they cant get their bike to go which is an area that I am hoping they expand to.

  3. Great by Digital+Vomit · · Score: 3, Funny

    Time to update the list of things that will let you automatically get a patent for something:

    • - on a computer
    • - on the internet
    • - on a stick
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    Modern copyright is theft of culture from everyone and it retards the progress of the useful arts and sciences.
  4. Re:anyone find that creepy? by lxs · · Score: 3, Insightful

    I don't see dirty old men using Google Glass to take upskirt pictures. These however...

  5. Re:anyone find that creepy? by Sarten-X · · Score: 4, Insightful

    I find it creepy that people don't understand patents. This isn't just a camera on a stick like a spy would use. It's a particular design for fitting cameras, sensors, processing gear, and other equipment into a particular form factor, solving particular engineering problems. Comparing it to WWII spy gear because it looks like a walking stick and takes pictures is like comparing a Formula 1 race car to a horse-drawn carriage, because they both drive on roads and have round wheels.

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    You do not have a moral or legal right to do absolutely anything you want.
  6. Re:Finally by Megane · · Score: 4, Funny

    But one does not simply Street View into Mordor!

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    #naabhaprzrag, #sverubfr-000, #agi-fcbafberq, negvpyr[pynff*=' negvpyr-ary-'] { qvfcynl: abar !vzcbegnag; }